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Then and Now: Potts Ironmongers, Edgeley, Stockport

THEN: The shop in 1950

Her departure will see the sale of Stockport ironmongers W H Potts, taking the shop out of the founding family's hands for the first time since 1888.

The distinctive, traditional business on Castle Street, Edgeley, and its family of owners have been at the heart of their area for over a century.

But after years of loyal service behind the counter, 71-year-old Kathleen is selling up and planning a busy retirement. "Running up stairs between the shop's three floors has kept me active, so I'll put it to good use," she said.

"I went trekking in Nepal last year and I am going to Peru in September. We are going to visit Machu Picchu, the Inca trail and the Amazon River."

NOW: The business has been in the family since 1888

Russell did a lot of work for the Rotary Club and the Old Stopfordians' Association at Stockport Grammar School, while Kathleen is chairman of the governors at Avondale High School in the town.

Though many traditional shops have fallen by the wayside with the rise of DIY superstores, Potts has endured because of its reputation and willingness to find customers' unusual requests.

Married in 1954, Russell and Kathleen have two children, Howard and Lynley. Howard is a motor mechanic and Lynley works with her mum when not looking after sons Toby, eight, and Ben, four.

Though it is leaving the family's ownership, the new owner, who runs a similar shop in Gorton, Manchester, will continue to run it as an ironmongers.

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